Buying Quality Binoculars Guide

Quality Binoculars are complex and precision instruments. They need to be handled and carefored correctly. Most first time buyers of quality binoculars are often surprised to find out that the magnification power (the number before the 'x' as in 8x32) is not the only factor that the buyer needs to consider. The magnification power alone is not enough without a careful consideration of how and where the binoculars are going to be used. This article will provide the typical hunter, bird watcher, fisherman, sports fan, concert attendee, vacationer, or general out-door enthusiast with 5 helpful tips to follow when selecting a pair of quality binoculars. This article doesn't discuss all of the binoculars attributes in detail. It also doesn't address the binoculars features and attributes that should be considered for specific users like star-gazers, birders, and hunters. Yet the tips discussed here will be important to these specific users also.

1. Don’t make things complicated. When searching for your first pair of quality binoculars you should always first consider the following attributes in a binocular:
  • Make sure the optics yields bright and clear images without causing eye strain over an extended period of use.
  • Make sure the bioculars have a comfortable carrying weight as you will be carrying them around for several hours.
  • Make sure the binoculars model or design is suitable for the activity or sport for which you are purchasing it for.
Quality binocualrs have many uses and models so make sure they are appropriate for the type of activity or sports where you will be using them. It may seem confusing at first given the large volume brands and models of binoculars that are available but at the end of your selection it is that simple.

2. You need to decide on your budget and stick to it. Everyone’s budget will obviously differ. Also each of us will have different levels of enthusiasm for the event or the sport that we are attending. Setting a limit for what you are willing to spend will definitely narrow your selection options. However, don't set your budget too low. If you buy a cheap pair of binoculars then you will be greatly disappointed and will either abandond your event or the use of the binoculars all together or you will soon be looking for a new pair of quality binoculars and the money you spent for the cheap binoculars will be wasted. On the other hand, don't spend a huge amount of money for a pair of quality binnoculars that you will only use once a year. It is simply not a good investment.

3. You need to educate yourself. Previously I mentioned earlier that binoculars are complex and precision instruments. You should however be able to understand the basics of binoculars with less than one hour’s worth of research. Just because you aren’t an avid bird watcher or a sports enthusiast you must be able to understand the common technical terms like 'Magnification', 'Objective Diameter', and 'Field of View'. If you wear eyeglasses you also must understand ‘Exit Pupil'. You should also learn the difference between a roof prism and porro prism design and learning the different lens coatings that are offered will be a big help. You see binoculars can range anywhere from $35 all the way up to $2,000 or even more. As a general rule, the higher the price, the higher the quality of the optics you are purchasing. Higher quality of optics results in a brighter, clearer, and a sharper image. Understanding these terms and features and how they impact the binocular's performance will make your purchase decision less stressful. A simple Google, Yahoo, or Bing search such as “How to Buy Binoculars” or “Binoculars 101” will give you plenty of research options.

4. You might consider an all purpose or general purpose pair of binoculars. The quality binoculars that you select should be easy to use, compact, lightweight, and easy to stuff into your bag and take with you. Most people who enjoy quality sports recommends wide angle compact binoculars with magnifications levels that range from 6x to 8x with objective lens sizes ranging from 25mm to 35mm. These binoculars will usually weigh in at well under 30 ounces that most people can carry around comfortably and are easier to keep steady. You see the higher the magnification, especially 10x or higher, the harder they are to keep steady (unless you are willing to pay extra for image stabilization). However, given that you are usually sitting down at sports events, then the extra weight of a full size binocular around your neck shouldn’t weigh you down all that much. Also when compared to quality binoculars of equal quality, a full size binoculars will yield a brighter image and a better image quality while also bringing you closer to the action. A full size binocular will also provide versatility in case you do want to try them for longer range viewing activities later on like bird watching or hunting. For any binocular purchase we always recommend Fully Multi-Coated Lenses, Bak-4 prisms, and 100% waterproof and fog proof. Don’t short change yourself with either of these performance features.

5. You don’t have to spend a fortune. In fact, you can purchase quality binoculars that you will be pleased with for under $200. If you are looking for high performing quality binoculars then you can purchase them between $200 to $500. You main concern here will be where you will be using your binoculars. If you are using your binoculars to watch a sporting event then they could be easily knocked out of your hands or even dropped. You don't need expensive binoculars. However, if you are using them for hunting or bird watching they you will want the better optics for performance and distance. You will find some high-end manufacturers like Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss typically offers binoculars for a minimum of $1,000 and over $2000. These manufacturers do offer the absolute best in optics performance, but please consider where you will be using your quality binoculars.

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Jerry J. Jansen

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